Chapter 40, Problem 38A

Why does uranium not yield energy if fused with something else?

To determine

The reason for not yielding energy by the fusion of uranium with something else.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The energy in nuclear reaction produces by fusion or fission of the radioactive material. If the radioactive material directly undergoes fission reaction, then the energy produces.

Most of the uranium in nature exists in the form of U-238. U-238 directly does not undergo fission reaction. U-238 only changes its nucleus to U-239 by absorbing neutrons, so the uranium does not yield energy.

Conclusion:

Thus, the uranium does not yield energy by fusing it with something because most of uranium does not undergo directly to fission reaction.